What started as a partnership with Peoria Public Schools has grown into a lasting community program that provides students, teachers, staff, and families with greater access to the Peoria Riverfront Museum.
All students in grades K-8 at Peoria Public Schools receive a free trip to the Peoria Riverfront Museum, including a guided tour, once a year. Students and their families also have access to a free museum family fun pass.
“It’s fun watching [students of all ages] bring their families and proudly show off the museum,” said John Morris, President and CEO of the Peoria Riverfront Museum.
Every teacher and staff member at Peoria Public Schools is also eligible for a free 1+1 membership. The membership provides free admission to 300 museums across the country.
“We want the teachers to own this place. We want them to feel like this is their place,” Morris said.
The program began after a former Peoria Public Schools school board president expressed a desire to bring every PPS student to the Peoria Riverfront Museum.
“In 2017, a former president of the school board said that they wished they could bring every student from PPS to the Peoria Riverfront Museum. I thought to myself, well that’s a tall order,” Morris said.
Dr. Bell was involved on the front end of creating the opportunity. What began as a big idea in 2017 has now grown into a program that has reached more than 51 schools.
“It means PPS students will have the opportunity to engage with world-renowned artifacts, exhibits, and artisans into perpetuity,” said Dr. Bell.
The program was made possible through a donation from the Glen Barton family. Polly Barton loved education, and her first gift helped get the program off the ground. For 10 years, the museum has continued to expand access for Peoria Public Schools staff and students.
Through June 30, 2027, Peoria Public Schools high school students can also receive free admission to the museum. Teachers can bring students to the museum for educational opportunities, including extra credit.
“This is such a great gift. Community access for all,” Morris said.
The commitment to making the program permanent was strengthened by a $5 million gift to an endowment fund. Five percent of the $5 million will support staff each year. The goal is to ensure that students and staff continue to have access to the museum for years to come.
“20 years from now we will continue to provide free access to Peoria Public School students,” said Morris.
